Isa Molde could return sooner than expected as UP fights for Final 4 spot

MANILA, Philippines—Fears were eased when Isa Molde’s scary-looking injury last Saturday was ruled as just a simple ankle sprain.

There may be more good news for University of the Philippines as its top hitter may be back in action sooner than expected as the league enters a crucial stretch for all Final Four hopefuls.

Molde, who missed Wednesday’s game against University of the East, said she’s working to return on Saturday when the Lady Maroons face Far Eastern University.

READ: Sigh of relief: No serious injury for UP hitter Isa Molde

“I think I can come back by Saturday against FEU, we’ll prepare hard so I can return and play,” said Molde in Filipino after UP’s 25-23, 20-25, 25-23, 24-26, 15-11 win. “It’s important that my ankle heals first because we might get to the Final Four.”

“The last games of the tournament are the most crucial for us.”

UP is in a triple tie with University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University for no. 3 with all teams sharing identical 6-4 records and every move counts with four games left in the standings.

READ: Fatherly instinct kicks in as Oliver Almadro rushes to Isa Molde’s side 

Molde added she’s raring to get back to the court and help the Lady Maroons’ pivotal run in their final games.

“Of course I want to play because I see my teammates having fun out there,” said Molde who has a total of 115 points before her injury. “If you love to play and you see your teammates having fun, you also want to share that kind of happiness.”